Houston

Larger than the entire state of Maryland and able to contain New York, Boston, and San Francisco at the same time, Houston is the largest city in Texas and the fourth-largest city in the United States. Not only does its size hold a lot of parks, museums, shopping malls (like the Galleria) and the first-ever domed stadium, but it also holds a lot of international culture.

Forbes named Houston the "Coolest City" in the country in 2012, citing factors such as the strong economy, dynamic arts scene and multiculturalism.

George R. Brown Convention Center spans more than five blocks. The GRB anchors a neighborhood bustling with fabulous hotels, at least 90 restaurants, Broadway-style entertainment, concerts, sporting events and nightlife.

The GRB Holds Events Ranging From:

Bridal Extravaganzas

Dance Tours

Equipment, Gun and Knife Shows

Party Supply Expos

International Conferences and Exhibitions

Seminars

Science and Engineering Fairs

Outdoor

Houston rates first among the nation’s 10 most populous cities in total acreage of parkland and third behind only San Diego and Dallas in park acreage per capita, according to a study by The Trust for Public Land.

Reaching over 445 acres, Hermann Park is one of Houston’s oldest and most popular city parks. The Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Houston Garden Center, and Hermann Park Golf Course highlight the park and have all added to the park's significance as an unparalleled recreational destination. Located between Fannin and Cambridge streets, the park is within walking distance of the T

Located across the street from the GRB Convention Center, this 12-acre downtown park has restaurants, an amphitheater, picnic areas, model boat pond and vibrant green spaces that are perfect for special events in the Houston area.

Museums and Attractions

Space Center Houston features a multitude of permanent exhibits, attractions and theaters. In addition, the venue presents an array of traveling exhibits and events created to take you on an out-of-this-world journey through human adventures in space.

The MFAH is founded on one simple belief: Art is for everyone. Found in the heart of Houston's Museum District, the MFAH is a dynamic and energetic cultural complex. Boasting two gallery buildings, a sculpture garden, visitors center, library, movie theater, gift shop, café, two art schools and two house museums, this complex has become the center of culture and learning in Houston. Classes, internships and various programs encourage participation and the education of visitors and locals alike.

Dining in Houston

Houston is considered to have one of the best culinary scenes in the country. Called the "Dining-Out Capital" of the US, Houston has more than 8,000 restaurants with culinary influences that represent more than 35 countries and American regions. Locals dine out 4.1 times per week, more than the national average of 3.1 times per week.

Because of the volume of restaurants in Houston, it's best to do a bit of research among restaurant review websites. Houston Press has a running list of Houston Restaurants, and TripAdvisor has ranked a good chuck of these restaurants by review.